Review: Murder a la Mod (1968)

Brian De Palma's 1968 film, Murder a la Mod, is an intriguing early work from a director who would go on to become a significant figure in cinema. If you're a collector, this film might pique your interest as it offers a unique narrative structure and an exploration of themes that would later become hallmarks of De Palma's style. It's not the most polished of his works, but it stands out for its experimental approach and serves as a fascinating artifact of its time.

Plot Summary

Murder a la Mod is set within the world of the New York City independent film scene. The story revolves around a young woman, Karen, who becomes entwined in a web of deceit and murder. As she navigates her relationship with a filmmaker boyfriend, she is drawn into a mystery that unfolds through a series of unexpected narrative twists. The film uses a non-linear narrative that weaves together multiple perspectives, creating an intricate puzzle for the audience to piece together without giving too much away.

Performances

The performances in Murder a la Mod are a mixed bag, but they have their own charm. Margo Norton, playing Karen, delivers a performance that captures the innocence and confusion of her character. Her portrayal is believable, even if the script doesn't always give her much depth to work with. As for the rest of the cast, they bring a raw, almost amateurish quality that complements the film's indie aesthetic. While none of the performances are particularly standout, they fit well within the film's experimental framework and add to its quirky vibe.

Direction and Craft

De Palma’s direction in Murder a la Mod is where the film really shines for collectors. You can see the budding techniques that would later define his style, like split-screen effects and an emphasis on voyeurism. The film is shot in black and white, which enhances its gritty, underground feel. There’s an evident influence of the French New Wave, evident in the jump cuts and playful narrative structure.

The editing, handled by De Palma himself, is particularly noteworthy for its time. The film plays with continuity and perspective, offering a glimpse into how De Palma would later master these techniques in his more famous works. While some might find the film's pacing uneven or the narrative convoluted, it is precisely these qualities that make it a fascinating study for any collector interested in the evolution of film style.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, Murder a la Mod is a fascinating glimpse into the early work of an influential director. Its rarity and unique narrative structure make it a valuable addition to any serious film collection. While it’s not without its flaws, its experimental nature and historical significance give it a special place. Given its limited release and the fact that it was largely overlooked at the time, finding a good copy can be a challenge, but it’s well worth the hunt.

Best Format to Own

The best format to own this film is undoubtedly the DVD version. It offers a clear transfer that maintains the film's original aesthetic and provides some insight into De Palma's early creative process. While a Blu-ray could potentially offer better clarity, the DVD captures the film as it was meant to be seen, with all its raw charm intact.

Rarity Rating

Murder a la Mod is rated as rare. It's not a film you'll easily find in the bargain bin, and its limited availability makes it a sought-after piece for collectors. If you stumble upon it, I’d suggest snapping it up without hesitation.

In summary, Murder a la Mod is a quirky, intriguing early film from Brian De Palma that offers collectors a chance to see the genesis of a filmmaker’s style. While it may not be for everyone, those with an appreciation for film history and experimental narratives will find it an essential addition to their collection. With its unique narrative approach and the insight it provides into De Palma’s later work, it earns a modest but respectable 3.5 stars from me.